Oral Cancer Screening

Our office is not only dedicated to your smile, we're also dedicated to your overall wellness. We take a holistic approach to your dental care, which includes an oral cancer screening as a part of your regular exam. Like many kinds of cancer, oral cancer can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated early.

We have the skills and tools to ensure that early signs and symptoms of oral cancer and pre-cancerous conditions are identified. While these symptoms may be caused by other, less serious problems, it is very important to visit our office to rule out the possibility of oral cancer. The most common symptoms of oral cancer include:

Red or white spots or sores anywhere in the oral cavity

A sore that bleeds easily or does not heal

A lump, thickening, or rough spot

Pain, tenderness, or numbness anywhere in the mouth or on the lips

Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking, or moving the jaw or tongue

Our team is trained in a simple, quick screening that involves an examination of your oral cavity as a whole, and not just your teeth, to detect cancerous and precancerous conditions. Besides a visual examination of your mouth, we will also feel the tissue of your mouth and throat to detect any abnormalities. If we find an area of concern, we will promptly make a referral to a dental specialist who performs biopsies and treats oral cancer.

Aside from receiving an oral cancer screening during your checkup at our office, there are many things you can do to help prevent oral cancer.

The best way to prevent oral cancer is to avoid all tobacco products and only drink alcohol in moderation.

Maintain a healthy, balanced diet.

Limit your exposure to the sun and always wear UV-A/B-blocking, sun-protective lotions on your skin as well as your lips.

During your next dental appointment, discuss an questions you have with Dr. Wicklund. Early detection of oral cancer can improve the chance of successful treatment.